Recipe: Cheesy Artichoke Spread

By Karen Palmer, Registered Dietitian.

This is a light and delicious appetizer that can be made in a snap! There are several different versions of this recipe but many contain a lot more fat using regular mayonnaise. I think this is a very tasty version that is a lot healthier.

• 1 can (14 oz.) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup grated or shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 French baguette loaf (12 oz.), cut into 32 slices
• 1 tbsp. chopped parsley

Mix all ingredients except bread and parsley in medium bowl. Spread approximately 3/4 tbsp. artichoke mixture on bread slices. Put slices on cookie sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until heated thorough. Sprinkle each slice with parsley and serve immediately. Makes 8 servings (1 serving equals 4 slices).

Nutrition information per serving: 177 calories (23% from fat), 4.5 grams total fat, 1.5 grams saturated fat, 0 grams trans fat, 8 milligrams cholesterol, 24 grams carbohydrate, 1 gram dietary fiber, 503 milligrams sodium, 6 grams protein.